New Britain Graduates Urged To 'Never Stop Learning'

Students and their families gathered at Veterans Memorial Field for the 2015 graduation ceremony for New Britain High School on Tuesday morning.

(Sean Fowler, Special to the Courant)

New Britain Graduates Urged To 'Never Stop Learning'

NEW BRITAIN — The bleachers at Veterans' Memorial Stadium were so packed Tuesday morning that many people clutching balloons commemorating the graduates of New Britain High School's Class of 2015 lost their grip while attempting to squeeze into their seats, sending the congratulatory balloons floating away into the sky.

Mayor Erin Stewart, the youngest female mayor serving in the United States and 2005 graduate of the school, told the 465 graduates dressed in maroon and gold gowns and decorated caps to never let anyone tell them they are too young to achieve their dreams and that they should not hold back on their passions.

Valedictorian Matthew Peterson shared a similar message, about discovering and exploring passions while also ignoring society's expectations and opinions.

"Embrace what you love and means most to you and when you find it, never give it up," Peterson said. "Not only is it the key to happiness, but it is the key to the mark you will leave on this earth."

Peterson urged graduates to continue finding knowledge in textbooks as well as from people and life situations.

"Be a sponge and never stop learning," Peterson said. "At the end of the day, every single person you meet has something to teach you, whether it's about the world or who they are."

In addition, Peterson reminded his peers that they are a small part of a big world and throughout life they must love unconditionally and think of others in need.

"Love not because it's cool or for selfish intentions. Love to develop deeper, more empathetic and more authentic relationships with those you value as friends," Peterson said. "Remember everyone needs love, friends old and new."

Principal David Chambers told the graduates to "simply think" before making any future decisions that could affect others.

Salutatorian Sebastian Lacki recalled class memories, such as prom and a day at the beach.

"They say that after high school we lose 90 percent of our friends and people that we talk to, and I have to say we are different," Lacki said. "We are the kind of class that will not lose touch."

Lacki told his classmates to chase their dreams and goals regardless of how much dedication is needed. He joked that if they work hard enough, when it comes time for a class reunion, the only tough decisions will be whose mansion the party will be at and what car to drive there, the Ferrari or the Lamborghini.

"Let's show the younger generation real success and be the ones they can look up to."